The Super Eagles’ preparations for their forthcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin have been impeded due to visa complications.
Seven newly called-up players are reportedly stranded without entry visas to South Africa, where Coach Eric Sekou Chelle and some members of his technical staff are already present for this vital assignment.
The team’s training camp at The Ranch Hotel in Polokwane was set to begin today, following its opening yesterday; however, the absence of these players suggests that full squad training will likely be postponed until the day before the match due to this organizational setback.
“There is a significant organizational issue regarding entry visas to South Africa – at least seven players will not be able to enter the country before Wednesday because of this,” a high-ranking source reportedly informed SCORENigeria.
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“This implies that full squad training may not occur until possibly the day before the match. This is disastrous! most players from last month’s qualifiers received three-month multiple entry visas, while the newly invited players and several recalled individuals are facing difficulties.
However, our correspondent learned last night that only three players might be notably impacted. Nevertheless, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is reportedly working to resolve the situation to ensure that the affected players can join the squad in a timely manner.
Among the prominent names in the 23-man squad announced by Chelle are Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, who is returning from injury, along with notable players such as Alex Iwobi and William Troost-Ekong. Furthermore, Sevilla star Akor Adams is poised to make his senior debut for the national team.
At present, Nigeria holds the third position in Group C, with 11 points, trailing behind leaders Benin Republic and South Africa. The Super Eagles remain optimistic about securing an automatic qualification spot, especially following FIFA’s recent sanctions against South Africa for fielding an ineligible player.
